Satangelic Sounds By Obey (Shepard Fairey)

Shepard Fairey - better known by his psuedonym, Obey - is one of the most prolific contemporary graffiti artists in the US and a key defining figure of the street art movement, globally. Famed for his 2008 Obama 'hope' poster, his work is influenced by and informs a critique of both advertising and propaganda, featuring politically charged images of consumer culture in a graphic, retro style. 'Satangelic Sounds' draws on antiquated vinyl design to create a bold aesthetic. In sepia tones of black and off-white, Obey has filled with print with busy patterns, which surround the image of a trident-bearing cherub, sat atop a turn-table. A wheel of text encircles the figure, stating 'Obey Records - Needle in the Groove - A Study in Propaganda High Fidelity'. The print deftly brings together themes of commercialisation and branding but, beyond all else, 'Satangelic Sounds' is an aesthetic triumph, striking and beautiful to behold.